NCTA Professional Standards and Guidelines: Guidelines

II. GUIDELINES FOR TEST CENTERS

The Guidelines noted here are listed as procedural steps rather than detailed instructions, e.g., "Ensure accurate timing of test " rather than "Keep time using [specific] method." Although they parallel content from many test manuals, they are not totally reflective of these instructions. They are generic enough to conform to requirements of all test programs, referring to the manual ("according to program requirements") where compliance with the Guideline is defined by adherence to the test company's stated procedure. These specific Guidelines may be particularly helpful for newer testing staff who are in the process of learning test administration procedures or for individuals and institutions setting up new test centers.

A. Paper-Based Tests (PBT)

Before the test, the TOM and/or staff

Schedule an adequate number of trained staff, per program requirements, and have backup available, if possible.

Perform check of testing facilities and equipment for operating conditions and security.

Check rest rooms to be sure they are secure.

Receive and/or count material; reconcile discrepancies.

Divide material per room assignments.

Store materials securely.

Prepare staff for administrations with thorough review of manual or instructor guidelines.

Ensure that all necessary equipment is in proper working order.

Make appropriate campus contacts, such as calling the campus security office or reserving rooms through a designated office.

Follow up on staff payment from test companies, if it is not received within the expected timeframe.

Track revenue that comes to the institution and ensure that payment is received.

Handle staff questions and problems. Utilize problems that occur, solutions used, and lessons learned to train staff on how to handle future test administrations and irregularities.

B. Computer-Based Tests (CBT)

To conduct CBT in a high quality standardized setting, always follow the methods and activities as shown in the procedural manuals for the specific test. Strive to ensure the best possible testing conditions are provided while maintaining standardized procedures. Below are best practices for efficient CBT administrations.

CONCLUSION

The NCTA Standards and Guidelines are intended to encourage testing professionals to align their procedures with best practices. If NCTA members need more information and guidance, they should take advantage of the online and interactive resources of the organization to access the expertise of other members. Each office is unique, but following the NCTA Standards and Guidelines brings excellence to the test center and professional satisfaction to the testing staff.

Historical Note: Standards and Guidelines for test centers were first written by the Midwest Professional Association of College Testing Personnel (MPACT) Professional Development Committee as an outgrowth of discussions about test center certification. The committee agreed that standards needed to be developed before certification could be considered. Test company and test center staff representing MPACT, the SouthEastern Testing Association (SETA), and the Texas Association of Collegiate Testing Personnel (TACTP) worked together to develop the standards. When MPACT and other regional organizations became the National College Testing Association (NCTA) in Spring 2000, the Standards and Guidelines were adopted as official policy of the organization.